If you live in Southwest Florida and you have a pool without a screen enclosure, you already know the problem. Mosquitoes at dusk, no-see-ums all evening, lovebugs twice a year, and a never-ending stream of leaves, pollen, and debris floating across your water. There's a reason nearly every pool in Florida sits inside a screened cage — and it's not just about comfort.
This guide covers everything you need to know about pool screen enclosures in our area: what they cost, what types are available, how they hold up in hurricanes, and why they're one of the smartest investments you can make as a Florida pool owner.
Why Do Florida Pools Need Screen Enclosures?
Newcomers to Florida sometimes think screen enclosures are optional. They're not — at least not practically. Here's what a screen enclosure actually does for you:
- Keeps out insects — mosquitoes, no-see-ums, lovebugs, wasps, and palmetto bugs. Without a screen, evening pool use in SW Florida is borderline miserable from May through October.
- Reduces debris in the pool — fewer leaves, less pollen, no frogs or birds. Your skimmer basket stays cleaner and your filter lasts longer.
- Acts as a code-compliant safety barrier — Florida building code requires a barrier around residential pools. A screen enclosure with a self-closing, self-latching door meets that requirement. It's the most popular barrier option in SW Florida by a wide margin.
- Provides some shade — screen blocks roughly 20–30% of UV depending on the mesh type. It's not full shade, but it takes the edge off our midday sun.
- Makes the pool area more usable — you can set up outdoor furniture, a grill, or a dining area under screen without worrying about insects or afternoon rain showers blowing through.
"A pool without a screen in Florida is like a car without A/C. You can technically use it, but you won't enjoy it."
What Types of Pool Screen Enclosures Are Available?
Not all screen is created equal. The type you choose affects visibility, airflow, insect protection, durability, and cost.
Standard Aluminum Screen (20/20 Mesh)
This is the most common screen used in SW Florida. The 20/20 designation means 20 strands per inch in both directions. It provides good visibility, solid airflow, and blocks mosquitoes, lovebugs, and most flying insects. It's the default option and what you'll see on the majority of pool enclosures in our area.
Fine Mesh (17/20)
Fine mesh has a tighter weave — 17 strands by 20 strands per inch. The tighter weave blocks smaller insects like no-see-ums, which can pass through standard 20/20 mesh. The tradeoff is slightly reduced visibility and airflow. If you live near mangroves, marshland, or water and no-see-ums are a serious problem, fine mesh is worth the upgrade.
Super Screen / Heavy-Duty (Phifer Brand)
Phifer's Super Screen is a vinyl-coated polyester that's significantly more durable than standard aluminum screen. It's more resistant to tears, stretching, and wind damage. It also holds up better against pets (claws) and pool chemicals. The visibility is comparable to standard screen, but the material costs roughly 2–3 times more. It's a strong choice if longevity is your priority.
Florida Glass (Clear Vinyl Panels)
Florida Glass panels are clear vinyl inserts that replace screen in specific sections — usually on the windward side of the enclosure. They block wind, rain, and cold while maintaining visibility. They're not typically used for a full enclosure (it would be an oven in summer), but they're excellent for protecting a section of the lanai from weather.
| Screen Type | Best For | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 20/20 Aluminum | Most homeowners | Base price |
| Fine Mesh 17/20 | No-see-um areas | +10–15% |
| Phifer Super Screen | Durability / pets | +25–40% |
| Florida Glass Panels | Wind / rain protection | +$2,000–$5,000 (partial) |
How Much Does a Pool Screen Enclosure Cost in Florida?
A new pool screen enclosure in Southwest Florida typically costs $15,000–$20,000 or more, depending on size and options. Here are the real numbers for Bradenton, Sarasota, and the surrounding Gulf Coast in 2026.
| Project Type | Details | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| New Screen Enclosure | Standard aluminum frame + 20/20 screen | $15,000–$20,000+ |
| Rescreening (Existing Frame) | Frame in good condition, new screen panels | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Gutters & Downspouts | Add-on to new or existing enclosure | $1,000–$2,000 |
Prices have risen significantly since 2022. Post-hurricane demand for screen enclosure contractors in SW Florida created a backlog that drove prices up across the board. Material costs (aluminum especially) have also increased. If you got a quote three years ago, expect it to be higher now.
What Drives the Price
- Size — a larger pool and deck area means more aluminum and more screen. Simple math.
- Height — taller enclosures (two-story homes, raised decks) require more material and heavier structural engineering to handle wind loads.
- Roof Style — mansard, dome, and gable are the three common configurations. Gable and dome designs tend to cost more due to additional framing complexity.
- Screen type — upgrading from standard to fine mesh or Super Screen adds to the total.
- Site conditions — difficult access, slope, or tie-in to an existing structure can add labor costs.
Do You Need a Permit for a Pool Screen Enclosure in Florida?
Yes — a screen enclosure requires a building permit in every SW Florida jurisdiction we work in, including Manatee County, Sarasota County, and Charlotte County. The enclosure must meet Florida Building Code for wind load requirements based on your location's wind zone. This isn't optional, and any contractor who tells you otherwise is cutting corners you don't want cut. For more on the permitting process, see our Florida pool permits guide.
The permit process typically takes 2–4 weeks for approval. Your contractor should handle this entirely.
Can a Pool Screen Enclosure Survive a Hurricane?
Standard screen enclosures are not hurricane-rated. They're designed to keep out insects and light debris, not to withstand 100+ mph winds. This is something every Florida pool owner needs to understand. For a complete pre-storm checklist, see our hurricane pool prep guide.
After a major hurricane (Category 3+), many screen enclosures in the path will sustain damage — torn panels, bent frames, or complete collapse. This is expected and is essentially by design. The aluminum framing is lightweight specifically so it doesn't become heavy, dangerous projectile debris during a storm.
What to Expect After a Hurricane
- Minor damage — a few torn screen panels can be replaced for a few hundred dollars.
- Moderate damage — significant screen loss but frame intact means a full rescreen ($2,000–$5,000).
- Major damage — frame bent or collapsed requires full replacement ($15,000–$20,000+).
Insurance coverage varies. Some homeowner policies cover screen enclosure damage from named storms; others exclude it or have a separate, higher deductible. Check your policy now — not after the storm. Consider asking your insurer about a screen enclosure rider if your current coverage is limited.
"We budget for screen repairs the same way we budget for landscaping after a storm. It's part of living in Florida."
Does a Screen Enclosure Count as a Pool Safety Barrier?
Yes. Florida law requires a barrier around all residential swimming pools, and a screen enclosure is the most popular way to satisfy this requirement in SW Florida. It does double duty as insect protection and safety barrier. For a full breakdown of Florida's pool barrier requirements, see our pool safety requirements guide.
To qualify as a code-compliant barrier, the screen enclosure must have:
- A self-closing door — the door must close on its own via a hinge or pneumatic closer
- A self-latching mechanism — the latch must engage automatically when the door closes
- The latch must be positioned at least 54 inches above the ground on the interior side (out of reach of small children)
If your screen enclosure door doesn't self-close and self-latch, you're technically not in compliance. This is an easy fix — pneumatic door closers are inexpensive and can be installed in minutes. But it's important to get right, especially if you have young children or are selling your home.
How Do You Maintain a Pool Screen Enclosure?
A screen enclosure is relatively low-maintenance, but it's not zero-maintenance. Here's what you should be doing:
- Annual pressure wash — algae, mildew, and dirt build up on the screen and frame, especially on the north-facing side. A gentle pressure wash once a year keeps it looking clean and prevents the buildup from degrading the screen material.
- Inspect for tears and holes — walk the perimeter and check each panel at least twice a year. One torn panel compromises the entire enclosure as a barrier (both for insects and for code compliance).
- Check for corrosion — aluminum frames can develop white oxidation over time, especially near saltwater or if you have a salt chlorine pool. Pitting or flaking is a sign the frame is degrading.
- Replace damaged panels promptly — small tears become big tears fast, especially in wind. A single panel replacement is cheap ($50–$150). Ignoring it means you'll be dealing with a larger repair later.
- Keep vegetation trimmed — trees and bushes pressing against the screen will cause damage over time. Maintain at least 12 inches of clearance.
- Lubricate the door hardware — the self-closing mechanism and latch should operate smoothly. A shot of silicone spray twice a year keeps them functional.
Bottom Line
A screen enclosure isn't just a nice-to-have in Southwest Florida — it's essential to actually enjoying your pool. It keeps the bugs out, the debris down, and meets your safety barrier requirement all in one structure. Yes, it's an investment ($15,000–$20,000 for new), and yes, hurricanes can damage them. But the alternative — swimming with mosquitoes and cleaning your pool three times a week — isn't much of an alternative at all.
If you're building a new pool, we include screen enclosure coordination in every project. If you already have a pool and need a new enclosure or a rescreen, we can point you to the contractors we trust in Bradenton, Sarasota, and the surrounding Gulf Coast area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a pool screen enclosure last in Florida?
A well-maintained aluminum screen enclosure in Southwest Florida typically lasts 15–25 years before the frame needs replacement. The screen panels themselves may need rescreening every 7–12 years depending on weather exposure, UV degradation, and whether you experience any hurricane damage. Regular maintenance — pressure washing, trimming vegetation, and replacing torn panels promptly — extends the life of both the frame and screen.
Can you add a screen enclosure to an existing pool?
Yes. A screen enclosure can be added to any existing pool. The project requires a building permit and engineering to meet Florida Building Code wind load requirements. Installation typically takes 1–2 weeks once the permit is approved. If you're planning other upgrades at the same time, coordinating the projects can save on overall costs. See our pool cost guide for a full breakdown of project pricing.
What is the best screen material for a pool enclosure in Florida?
For most homeowners in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Lakewood Ranch, standard 20/20 aluminum mesh is the best balance of visibility, airflow, and cost. If no-see-ums are a problem in your area, upgrade to 17/20 fine mesh. For maximum durability — especially if you have pets — Phifer Super Screen (vinyl-coated polyester) lasts significantly longer than aluminum but costs 25–40% more.
Does homeowners insurance cover screen enclosure damage from hurricanes?
Coverage varies by policy. Some Florida homeowners policies cover screen enclosure damage from named storms under the dwelling or other structures portion. Others exclude it or apply a separate, higher wind/hurricane deductible. Check your policy before storm season and ask your insurer about a screen enclosure rider if your current coverage is limited.
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- Screen mesh specifications: Phifer Incorporated — product data sheets (SunScreen, Super Screen, 20/20, 17/20)
- Florida pool barrier code: Florida Building Code, Residential — Section R4501.17 (barrier requirements)
- Hurricane guidance: University of Florida IFAS Extension
Pricing reflects 2026 estimates for Southwest Florida and may vary by project. Screen enclosure installation is typically performed by a licensed specialty contractor. Contact us for recommendations.